Medical Adventure Camp

To date, 140 adventurous youths, ages 10 to 12, have participated in Medical Adventure Camp at Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital. This day camp, sponsored by the Children's Miracle Network, the hospital's medical staff and the Service League Volunteers, provides an up close and personal look at the many career and volunteer opportunities in health care.

The idea for the innovative camp came to Lynn Brooks, retired Director of Volunteer and Health Career Services as a result of her attendance at a Gang Awareness Task Force luncheon. The presentation pointed out that local children ages 10 to 12 are at high risk for delinquency since this age group is often targeted by gang members seeking to increase their ranks.

Through a Native American Indian theme, the camp provides positive role models, opportunities for bonding with kids of other races and socio-economic backgrounds, and exposure to the benefits of a caring community.

Participants learned about a variety of health-related topics in interactive classes and activities. Student volunteers helped guide the campers, and hospital staff and physicians presented the classes and activities.

Up to 20 participants are accepted annually, and scholarships are available to children whose families cannot afford the $175 enrollment fee. Please call 755-0772 or email volunteer@svmh.com for more information.